The Toronto Maple Leafs positioned ahead Matthew Knies on injured reserve Friday resulting from an upper-body harm sustained throughout Wednesday’s recreation towards the Vegas Golden Knights. The transfer is retroactive to Nov. 20, leaving Knies sidelined for no less than every week.
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Head coach Craig Berube beforehand reported that Knies was bettering, however he is not going to be out there for Sunday’s recreation towards Utah.
The Influence on the Maple Leafs
Knies’ absence creates a big hole in Toronto’s ahead group. The 22-year-old winger has been a key contributor this season, scoring eight targets and 12 factors in 20 video games. His bodily play and scoring contact have been integral to the workforce’s secondary scoring.
The Maple Leafs are already grappling with a prolonged harm listing, together with Max Domi, Calle Jarnkrok, and Auston Matthews. Younger gamers like Bobby McMann, Nicholas Robertson, and Pontus Holmberg have stepped into expanded roles to compensate. Two children have instantly impacted the workforce with some success, with Fraser Minten and Nikita Grebenkin showing within the lineup.
Maple Leafs Name Up Alexander Nylander After Knies Damage
In a roster adjustment following Knies’ placement on injured reserve, the Maple Leafs signed Alexander Nylander to a one-year, $775,000 NHL contract on Friday. Nylander, 26 years of age, has been spectacular within the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Toronto Marlies. He has scored eight targets and 4 assists in 14 video games with the Marlies.
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Drafted initially eighth total by the Buffalo Sabres in 2016, Nylander has struggled to search out constant NHL footing. Now he has an opportunity to contribute to a depleted Maple Leafs lineup. His call-up might present wanted depth throughout Knies’ restoration. Maybe he’ll even share a shift or two together with his brother William Nylander.
Why the Maple Leafs Will Miss Knies
Knies’ capacity to create offensive alternatives and his rising presence within the high six have made him an important a part of the Maple Leafs’ lineup. His absence will stress Toronto’s depleted roster to step up much more. With the workforce struggling to keep up consistency amid accidents, getting Knies again shall be vital for his or her success within the coming weeks.
When will the Maple Leafs’ lineup lastly get wholesome sufficient to compete at full power?
